Isuzu MU-X spied in India for the first time

The Isuzu MU-X, the successor to the Isuzu MU-7, was last reported as launching in India later this year. In the latest, the Toyota Fortuner rival has been spied testing in India for the first time, courtesy Autocar India.

The Isuzu MU-X measures 4,825 mm in length, 1,860 mm in width (excluding door mirrors) and 1,825 mm/1,830 mm/1,860 mm in height, and has a wheelbase of 2,845 mm. The car is based on the Chevrolet Trailblazer mechanicals with different front and rear fascias. The Isuzu iteration is marketed as a less premium alternative to what Chevrolet offers.

In Thailand, the Isuzu MU-X is offered with the RZ4E-TC1.9-litre four-cylinder diesel engine that produces 110 kW (150 PS) and 350 Nm of torque and the 4JJ1-TCX 3.0-litre four-cylinder diesel engine that delivers 130 kW (177 PS) and 380 Nm. To avoid the green cess and more importantly any future uncertainties related to diesel engines over 2,000 cc in displacement, the former could be the option Isuzu India might opt for.

The company also has the option of using the 2,499 cc four-cylinder VGS turbodiesel engine that makes 134 hp at 3,600 rpm and peak torque of 320 Nm between 1,800 and 2,800 rpm on the D-Max V-Cross pickup.

The Isuzu MU-X will be manufactured at the company's new plant in Sri City, Andhra Pradesh and is expected to cost INR 20-25 lakh (ex-showroom).